Internal Courtyard

Many schools often have internal courtyards, also referred to as quadrangles. Schools are large buildings but they often only take up the ground floor and maybe the first floor. This means that they end up being large but flat buildings, and this design lends itself to internal courtyards.

These internal courtyards are a great place for EYFS school children as they are safe and enclosed spaces. There are however two potential problems with this type of design. Firstly, there is usually an extremely high footfall in these areas, as they usually have entrances from classrooms on all four sides. The second issue is that maintenance in courtyards can be quite difficult, as any gardening equipment would need to be transported through the classrooms and hallways. This can obviously be very messy and difficult and can’t be done during school hours.

Artificial grass is a fantastic solution for quadrangles and courtyards in schools. It is extremely durable and so can withstand the heavier than usual footfall, it also doesn’t require maintenance and won’t need regular mowing or trimming. On top of this, artificial grass can do wonders for brightening up dull and grey areas and transforming them into idyllic, beautiful and fun environments for children to play in.

Bad Access

Stadia 24

Stadia 24 is typically used in semi-professional sports installations on football pitches and MUGAs. However we used it for this relatively small play area because of its increased level of durability. Our sports grasses are made to withstand extremely high impact levels. Normal, large and open playgrounds can have our normal artificial grasses such as Pro Play, however, because this small area was predicted to have such a high level of activity, we recommended Stadia 24 for the job.

Side Low Res stadia 24

Water Play Area

Small Water Play Areas are a brilliant addition to any early years foundation stage playground. Working with the school, we designated this corner of the courtyard as the water play area. Children can explore their fine motor skills and experiment with how different materials interact with water.

To make this area stand out as designated for water play, we installed our Blue Rainbow Range artificial grass and created a wavey graphic edge to the area, which completed the look. It makes us proud to think of the hours and hours of educational fun children will have in this specially designed area.

Water Play Area

Sensory Area

A problem with the pre-existing courtyard, was a residual area of the playground wedged between two buildings. This area went largely unused from day to day as it was only wide enough to fit one or two people in, with no space to do anything.

Thinking outside the box, we suggested to the school that they could use artificial grass to create a sensory area. The school loved this idea and we installed some of our more unusual artificial grasses such as Extreme and Turquoise Rainbow Range. These grasses create a unique set of colours and textures that can set the imaginations of young children alight.

Sensory Play Area
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Wetpour Area

To Add to a vibrant and varied playground, we added a Wetpour area in the corner of the quadrangle. We used a loud and bright red colour which will help make the playground stand out.

The use of different types of areas can also be very helpful for teachers using the playarea. Teachers are able to instruct pupils to move from one area to the next, not only will this help in organising the children, but it can also be used in playground games. For example, the Wetpour area can be used as a starting location for a face, or a base to run back to during imagination games.

Wetpour Area

Prior Drainage Problems

The Coppice Primary had pre-existing pond drainage problems in the centre of the courtyard. The amount of rainfall that the courtyard drains could handle was insufficient for the level of water it collected from all the adjacent roofs. As soon as a small amount of debris cumulated in the drains, puddles immediately formed.

Artificial grass on it’s own can’t do anything about drainage problems. The artificial grass has drainage holes that allow water to run straight through it. If the ground beneath the artificial grass can’t handle the water volume the artificial grass will have no positive or negative impact on this.

To attempt to help alleviate the drainage issues, Nomow built a French Drain below the artificial grass.

First, we removed the existing patio slabs. Then, we dug out and constructed a French Drain in the centre of the courtyard. The top of the French Drain was then made level so that it was unnoticeable after the artificial grass had been laid on top.

Drainage

At Nomow, we are dedicated to transforming spaces into vibrant, functional areas that inspire and endure. Our recent project at Coppice School in Birmingham highlights our commitment to quality and innovation in landscape renovation.

By installing our premium artificial grass, we have revitalized the school’s quadrangle, providing a safe, attractive, and low-maintenance environment for students and staff.

Why Nomow is the Preferred Choice for Educational Facilities

Nomow’s artificial grass solutions are ideal for educational settings, offering numerous benefits tailored to the unique needs of schools and other institutions. Our products are designed to be durable, safe, and visually appealing, ensuring that outdoor spaces remain pristine and usable year-round with minimal upkeep.

Benefits of Choosing Nomow for School Renovations

  1. Safety First: Our artificial grass is soft, non-toxic, and designed to reduce the risk of injury, making it perfect for playgrounds and recreational areas.
  2. Low Maintenance: With no need for watering, mowing, or fertilizing, our grass saves time and resources, allowing school maintenance teams to focus on other important tasks.
  3. All-Weather Use: Nomow’s grass is weather-resistant and remains green and lush throughout the year, providing a consistent play surface regardless of the season.
  4. Aesthetic Appeal: Available in a variety of textures and shades, our grass enhances the visual appeal of any area, creating a welcoming and stimulating environment for students.

 

Explore our case study on Coppice School’s quadrangle renovation to see how Nomow can enhance your educational facility. Trust Nomow to deliver beautiful, practical, and sustainable outdoor solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What types of areas can benefit from Nomow’s artificial grass in schools?

Nomow’s artificial grass is perfect for a variety of school areas, including playgrounds, sports fields, common areas, and landscaping around buildings. It provides a safe, durable, and attractive surface for students to enjoy.

Is Nomow’s artificial grass safe for children?

Yes, safety is a top priority at Nomow. Our artificial grass is non-toxic, soft, and cushioned, reducing the risk of injuries from falls. It’s an ideal surface for play areas and other high-traffic zones within schools.

How does artificial grass help with school maintenance?

Artificial grass significantly reduces maintenance efforts and costs. It eliminates the need for regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing. Additionally, it is easy to clean and can withstand heavy use without becoming worn or damaged.

Can artificial grass be installed on existing concrete or tarmac surfaces?

Yes, Nomow’s artificial grass can be installed over concrete, tarmac, and other hard surfaces. Our installation process includes preparing the surface to ensure proper drainage and a smooth, even finish.

How long does the installation process take for a school project?

The installation time varies depending on the size and complexity of the project. However, most school installations can be completed within a few days to a week. We work efficiently to minimise disruption to school activities.

Does artificial grass drain well during rain?

Yes, our artificial grass is designed with efficient drainage systems to prevent waterlogging. It allows rainwater to pass through quickly, ensuring that the surface remains dry and usable shortly after rainfall.

What is the lifespan of Nomow’s artificial grass?

Nomow’s artificial grass is made from high-quality materials and is designed to last for many years. With proper care and maintenance, it can provide a durable and attractive surface for 10 years or more.

Are there different styles and colors of artificial grass available?

Yes, Nomow offers a variety of styles, textures, and shades to match the specific aesthetic and functional needs of any project. We can help you choose the perfect product to enhance the look and usability of your school’s outdoor spaces.

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